Lentil, Potato And Ham Soup(Makes 6 Servings)
A hearty and nutritious soup combining tender lentils, potatoes, and savory ham, flavored with fresh green onions and a hint of lemon, perfect for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium pot, put 6 cups of water, lentils, chopped onion, and cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Add sliced green onions and diced ham, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding carrots or celery along with the onions. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile. To save time, use pre-cooked lentils or canned lentils, rinsed and drained. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, and feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaf for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional sliced green onions for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an added crunch, consider serving alongside homemade croutons or a simple green salad. This dish also complements flavors found in American recipes like Grandma Kline's Baked Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil, Potato And Ham Soup(Makes 6 Servings) contains roughly 372 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 575mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. If using canned, simply drain and rinse them before adding to the soup in the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through, as they are already cooked.
What can I substitute for ham if I want a vegetarian option?
If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can use smoked tofu or tempeh for a similar texture and flavor. Adding a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika will enhance the smoky flavor without the meat.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to adjust the spice level to their liking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).